It is that time of year once again.
The one day a year shoppers around the country wait for: Black
Friday. Those two words combined together create vivid images of
dedicated shoppers. Shoppers who may not always be in the best of
moods. That is why this year I have decided to give some advice to
your Black Friday shopping experience. I am not an expert. However,
I have worked quite a few Black Fridays in my day some of which
include malls and “the biggest toy store there is” where kid's
“don't wanna grow up.”
Lets start with plenty of rest. The
lines will be long, and it can be exhausting. The better rested you
are, perhaps the more fun you will have. That's what shopping should
always be: fun.
Another way to prepare to have fun is
to be comfortable. This tip goes out especially to those ladies (and
I have been guilty of it while going shopping myself) who always feel
they have to dress to impress. Lets be realistic: 1.You will most
likely be standing in line for a long time (I have seen people sit in
line) 2. If you are an avidly eager shopper, you may be waiting
outside the store for hours before they open (and before we as
workers even get there....seen that also) 3. Everyone around you
shopping is there with a purpose: to get the best deals, not to check
out your well-planned outfit. So trade your best heels and ensemble
for some sneakers and yoga pants or house shoes and pj's if you like.
Just be comfortable.
Being comfortable also comes with not
bringing anything you don't need or do not think you would wish to
carry for what could be a few hours on end. If it's cold where you
are layer because it may very well be warm inside with everyone
running around. For me personally, I'd go with a small cross-body
bag (leaving my arms free to shop).
My next tip is very simple: be kind.
I can't speak for everywhere, but I know where I work we try our
hardest to get you what you are looking for. We want your families
(esp the kiddos) to have the best moments on Christmas. Those
moments that a camera can't capture. You just have to understand
that we as employees are most likely way out numbered. Also be kind
to your fellow shoppers and those around you. No item is worth
hurting someone else. My preaching on being kind stops there.
My last tip sounds simple, but you
would be surprised....It's is to just be prepared. Black Friday is
of no big surprise to anyone. You know it is going to be busy. You
know ads for just about everywhere leak out on the internet before
they should. Have everything ready before you leave your homes and
venture out into, dare I say the madness. Know what you want and who
has it the cheapest. Have your coupons and rewards cards ready for
each place. Those simple little things helps the lines to stay in
motion. If you decide to make a full day of it (first off kudos to
you) plan your route. Traffic is going to be terrible as it is.
Know where you are going and how to get there if at all possible.
I will leave you with this....out of
all of my retail experience with Black Friday, working the opening
shift (7pm thanksgiving night to 4am Friday morning) at “the
biggest toy store there is” is my favorite. It's fast paced,
energetic, and I know I am selling something that will make some
child somewhere very happy on Christmas Morning. That's why most of
us are shopping, to hopefully bring a smile to someone's face while
possibly getting a good deal. Please don't forget that while you are
out.....even if you have to wait a while or come across someone who
isn't in the best of moods.....Just remember the real meaning of why
you came....not so much to save money but more so to create joy.
p.s.-be safe and have fun :)
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